Mobile Device, Rewards Aid Lifestyle Change

Technology, coaching and money rewards may help people adopt healthier lifestyles, a new study suggests. The study included 204 adults. All of them ate high levels of saturated fat and few fruits and vegetables. They sat around a lot (were sedentary) in their leisure time. They also got little exercise. People were randomly assigned into groups. One group tried to eat less saturated fat and reduce sedentary leisure time. The second tried to eat less saturated fat and exercise more. The third tried to eat more fruits and vegetables and reduce sedentary leisure time. The fourth tried to eat more fruits and vegetables and exercise more. People used a hand-held device to track their progress. They were paid $175 each for tracking and for achieving goals. Coaches encouraged them by phone or e-mail.